The entryway closet is perhaps the most overlooked and underappreciated part of our home. Yet, it is the first area we encounter when we come home and the last one we leave when we head out. It holds the power to set a positive or negative mood for our day. How we organize it and what we keep inside can make a huge difference in our daily routine. Let’s delve into the 10 things I always keep in my entryway closet, and maybe you’ll find a few ideas to optimize your own.
1. An Umbrella Stand
An umbrella stand is a must-have for the entryway closet. This simple item can save you from the hassle of finding a dry place to put your wet umbrella when you come home from a rainy day. It also keeps your closet tidy and your floors dry. Beyond just being practical, the umbrella stand can also serve as a stylish accessory and add a touch of elegance to your closet. There are many designs out there to choose from, so you can easily find one that matches your home decor.
2. A Shoe Rack
Shoes scattered all over the floor can make your closet look messy and chaotic. That’s why a shoe rack is a key element in my entryway closet. It helps me keep my shoes organized, which makes it easier to find the pair I want to wear. Aside from maintaining order, a shoe rack can also help prolong the life of your shoes by preventing them from being squashed or damaged. Some shoe racks even have tiers that allow you to sort your shoes by type or season.
3. A Key Holder
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve misplaced my keys. To avoid this frustration, I always keep a key holder in my entryway closet. It’s a simple solution that prevents me from losing my keys and saves me precious time in the morning. Having a designated place for your keys can also help prevent them from scratching other items in your closet. Plus, it can act as a reminder to take your keys when you leave the house.
4. A Coat Rack
A coat rack is an essential item, especially during the colder months. It allows me to hang my coats, jackets, and scarves neatly, keeping them in good shape and ready to wear. In addition, having a coat rack in your entryway closet can save you from having to carry your heavy coats to your bedroom or another part of your house. It’s a convenient solution that can streamline your routine and make your life a little bit easier.
5. A Storage Bench
A storage bench serves a dual purpose in my entryway closet. It offers a place to sit when putting on or taking off shoes and provides extra storage space for items that don’t fit elsewhere. The storage bench can be used to store seasonal items, such as hats, gloves, and scarves in the winter, or sun hats and sunglasses in the summer. It’s a versatile and practical piece that can keep your closet organized and clutter-free.
6. A Trash Bin
Keeping a small trash bin in the entryway closet is a great way to prevent litter from accumulating. It’s perfect for discarding junk mail, emptying pockets, or throwing away broken items before they clutter up your home. It’s a small detail, but having a trash bin in your entryway closet can help maintain the cleanliness of your home and promote a tidy lifestyle.
7. A Mirror
A mirror is not only a decorative piece but also a practical element in an entryway closet. It allows me to check my appearance before leaving home, ensuring that I always look my best. Furthermore, a mirror can also make your closet appear larger and brighter. This is especially useful if your entryway closet is small or does not receive a lot of natural light.
8. A Basket for Mail
9. A Toolbox
Keeping a small toolbox in your entryway closet can be very handy. It allows you to quickly access basic tools for minor repairs or tasks around your home. With a toolbox in your entryway closet, you won’t have to go back and forth to your garage or basement every time you need a screwdriver or a hammer. It’s a small convenience that can save you a lot of time and effort.
10. A Spare Light Bulb
Lastly, I always keep a spare light bulb in my entryway closet. You never know when a light bulb will burn out, and having a spare one close at hand can save you from searching around your house in the dark. It’s a small detail, but it’s one of those things that you’ll be grateful for when you need it. After all, it’s the little things that make our lives easier and more comfortable.

